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Komatsu inserted into lineup vs. Felix

Komatsu inserted into lineup vs. Felix

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Erik Komatsu 042712

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SEATTLE -- That didn't take long.

Just one day after the Twins claimed outfielder Erik Komatsu from the Cardinals, acting manager Scott Ullger penciled his newest player in the starting lineup Saturday against ace Felix Hernandez and the Seattle Mariners.

"He's a Major League player and I asked him if he was ready to play," Ullger said. "He said he was."

Komatsu, who arrived late Friday night, seemed comfortable when he answered questions from reporters inside the visiting clubhouse at Safeco Field.

"I don't have any outstanding tools -- I'm just a gamer," said Komatsu, who batted eighth and started in right field. "I play as hard as I can and hopefully help the team win."

The struggling Twins certainly hope that Komatsu, 24, can make an impact in the outfield. Clete Thomas, who was claimed off waivers April 14, didn't find much success as an extra outfielder and was designated for assignment Friday to make room for Komatsu.

The California native hit .211 (4-for-19) with two walks and three runs in 15 games with the Cardinals this season. He was drafted in 2008 by the Brewers in the eighth round and already has been with four different Major League teams in his short professional career, but he's taking it in stride.

"That is kind of crazy -- four years, four teams," he said. "Hopefully I can stick with one team."

Off the field, Komatsu is a musician. He goes by "Komo Beatz," on the Internet and had several tracks for sale available on his website: http://soundclick.com/komobeatz

"I just have always had a passion for music," he said.

Komatsu said he's teaching himself piano. His Twitter page (@KomoBeatz) has over 5,000 followers.